Ronaldo Expects 2026 World Cup is ‘Definitely’ His Last

Cristiano Cristiano said that his record-breaking sixth World Cup in 2018 at age 41 would be his final.”Definitely, yes, because I will be 41 years old,” Ronaldo told CNN anchor Becky Anderson in a live video link from Portugal’s training camp to a tourism conference in Saudi Arabia.Ronaldo clarified that when he says he will retire from soccer “Soon” should mean “probably one or two years.”Portugal should qualify for the World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States of America, Canada and Mexico in the next few days. The team needs just two points from its final qualifying group games at Ireland on Thursday and hosting last-placed Armenia on Sunday.Ronaldo’s five goals in four qualifying games have extended his men’s world record to 143 for a national team.”I am feeling very good at this time. I score goals, I still feel quick and sharp, I’m enjoying my game in the national team,” he said.In regard to the end of his playing career, Ronaldo said, “Let’s be honest, when I mean soon I mean probably one, two years.”I’m enjoying the moment. But when I mean soon, it’s really soon, because I give everything for football. I’m in the game for the last 25 years, I did everything.”I have a lot of records. I’m really proud. So let’s enjoy the moment, live the moment.Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have both qualified for their record sixth World Cup. That would break a tie with German great Lothar Matthäus who played at each World Cup from 1982-98.Argentina captain Messi is going as the defending champion and will turn 39 during the group stage in North America.Portugal and Argentina are among the co-hosts of the 2030 World Cup, giving Ronaldo and Messi the chance to exit the World Cup stage at home.Reporting by The Associated Press.Want great stories delivered right to your inbox? Sign up for a FOX Sports account or login to get a daily newsletter! FOLLOW Personalize your FOX Sport experience by following your favorites
2025-11-11 16:39:10